Ireland 13-Day Trip Itinerary

Car Rental Pickup

Pick up your pre-booked rental car, essential for your self-drive adventure.

Ensure you have adequate insurance and are familiar with driving on the left side of the road.

Book a large enough vehicle to comfortably accommodate 4 people and luggage. Ensure both couples are named drivers if needed. Manual cars are common, request automatic if preferred.

Check-in to Belfast Accommodation

Settle into your two-room accommodation in Belfast, providing a comfortable base for your four-night stay.

Look for accommodation with good access to parking, especially since you'll have a rental car.

Titanic Belfast Experience

Explore the iconic Titanic Belfast museum, located on the historic slipways where the RMS Titanic was built and launched.

Discover the story of the Titanic through interactive exhibits.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues. Allow ample time to explore the entire exhibition.

Visit SS Nomadic

Step aboard the SS Nomadic, Titanic's original tender ship, for a glimpse into the luxurious craftsmanship and experience of boarding the grand liner.

Often combined with the Titanic Belfast ticket or available as a separate purchase. Check combination ticket options.

Dinner in Cathedral Quarter

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Belfast's vibrant Cathedral Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse culinary scene.

Options range from traditional Irish pubs to modern European cuisine. Consider booking for popular spots on a Saturday evening.

Belfast City Hall Tour

Take a guided tour of Belfast City Hall, a magnificent Edwardian Baroque building, to learn about the city's history and architecture.

Admire the stunning interiors and the surrounding gardens.

Free guided tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis or can be booked online. Check tour times.

St. George's Market

Browse the stalls at St.

George's Market, one of Belfast's oldest attractions. On Sundays, it's a general market with arts, crafts, food, and live music.

Only open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Great for grabbing some local snacks or souvenirs.

Political Murals Tour

Take a Black Taxi tour or self-drive to see the famous political murals in West Belfast (Falls Road and Shankill Road), offering insights into the city's past conflicts and peace process.

A Black Taxi tour (booked locally) provides historical context from a local perspective. If self-driving, research the areas beforehand.

Ulster Museum

Explore the Ulster Museum, home to vast collections of art, history, and natural sciences, including Egyptian mummies, dinosaur skeletons, and Irish artifacts.

Free entry. Located in Botanic Gardens, which are also pleasant for a stroll.

Dinner in Queen's Quarter

Enjoy an evening meal in the Queen's Quarter, known for its proximity to Queen's University and a variety of casual dining options.

Lots of pubs and restaurants offering different cuisines.

Drive to Giant's Causeway

Embark on a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast Road towards the Giant's Causeway, enjoying stunning coastal views.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Experience crossing the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended 30 meters above the sea, connecting to a small island with stunning views.

National Trust site. Online booking is essential for specific time slots, especially during peak season. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Lunch in Bushmills

Enjoy a casual lunch in the charming village of Bushmills, home to the famous whiskey distillery.

Consider a pub lunch for traditional Irish fare.

Giant's Causeway Exploration

Marvel at the hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site formed by ancient volcanic activity (or by the giant Finn McCool!). Explore the various walking trails.

National Trust site. Parking and Visitor Centre access require a fee, but walking directly to the columns is free. Wear sturdy shoes as the rocks can be slippery.

Return Drive to Belfast

Enjoy the scenic return journey to Belfast.

Traditional Pub Dinner

Savour a hearty dinner at a traditional Belfast pub, soaking in the local atmosphere.

Many pubs offer live music on Monday evenings.

Drive to Derry/Londonderry

Drive west to the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry, approximately 1.

5 hours from Belfast.

Walk the City Walls

Embark on a walk along Derry's 17th-century city walls, the only completely intact historic city walls in Ireland. Enjoy panoramic views and learn about the city's rich history.

Free to walk, but guided tours are available for a deeper historical understanding. Wear comfortable shoes.

Bogside Murals

Visit the famous Bogside Murals, depicting key moments from the Troubles and the civil rights movement.

These powerful artworks offer a poignant insight into Northern Irish history.

Consider hiring a local guide (known as 'Free Derry' tour guides) for in-depth explanations. Be respectful of the area.

Lunch in Derry

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or restaurant within the city walls or in the Craft Village.

Museum of Free Derry

Visit the Museum of Free Derry to gain a deeper understanding of the civil rights movement, Bloody Sunday, and the Troubles from a local perspective.

Entry fee applies. A powerful and informative museum.

Return Drive to Belfast

Drive back to Belfast, concluding your day trip to Derry.

Farewell Belfast Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Belfast, perhaps trying a restaurant you noted earlier or revisiting a favourite.

Check-out from Belfast Accommodation

Check out from your Belfast accommodation and begin your journey towards Galway.

Scenic Drive to Galway

Embark on a picturesque drive across the island from Belfast to Galway.

This journey will take you through beautiful Irish countryside.

Lunch Break

Stop for lunch at a town along your route, such as Athlone, which is roughly halfway.

Check-in to Galway Accommodation

Arrive in Galway and check into your accommodation for two nights.

Look for accommodation with good access to the city centre and parking facilities.

Explore Latin Quarter

Take a leisurely stroll through Galway's charming Latin Quarter, known for its narrow streets, colourful shops, cafes, and street performers.

Visit the Spanish Arch.

Soak in the bohemian atmosphere and vibrant street life.

Dinner in Galway

Enjoy dinner at one of Galway's renowned restaurants, perhaps focusing on fresh seafood from Galway Bay.

Galway is a food hub, with many excellent options for all budgets. Consider booking if you have a specific restaurant in mind.

Drive from Belfast to Galway

Begin your self-drive journey from Belfast (or surrounding area) towards the vibrant city of Galway.

Enjoy the scenic transition from Northern Ireland into the Republic's Wild Atlantic Way.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your Galway accommodation and settle in.

Grab a quick lunch at a local cafe.

Explore Latin Quarter & Spanish Arch

Wander through the colourful, bohemian streets of Galway's Latin Quarter.

Browse unique shops, historical buildings, and visit the iconic Spanish Arch along the River Corrib.

This area is perfect for walking and soaking in the atmosphere. Great photo opportunities.

Stroll Salthill Promenade

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Salthill Promenade, offering beautiful views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands in the distance.

If you're brave, 'kick the wall' for good luck!

A classic Galway experience, popular with locals. Excellent for sunset views.

Dinner in Galway

Savour fresh seafood or traditional Irish fare at one of Galway's many acclaimed restaurants.

Traditional Irish Music Session

Experience an authentic traditional Irish music session at a local pub.

The Crane Bar and Tig Coili are popular choices.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere and a pint of Guinness. Often no cover charge, but buy a drink.

Connemara National Park Scenic Drive

Embark on a breathtaking self-drive tour through the Connemara National Park.

Explore its dramatic mountains, boglands, lakes, and scattered villages. Stop at scenic viewpoints for photos.

Drive the scenic N59 and R344 routes. Bring snacks and water as amenities can be sparse. Consider stopping at Diamond Hill for a hike if time and energy permit (allow 2-3 hours).

Visit Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

Discover the stunning Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery nestled by a lake.

Explore its historic rooms, impressive neo-Gothic church, and beautiful Victorian Walled Garden.

Allow plenty of time to explore the Abbey and gardens. There's a cafe on site for lunch or a snack. Book tickets online in advance to save time.

Explore Clifden

Take some time to explore Clifden, often called the 'Capital of Connemara.

' Enjoy the charming town, browse its shops, or have an early evening drink.

Dinner & Relax in Galway

Return to Galway for a relaxing evening and dinner, perhaps trying a different restaurant or enjoying a quiet drink after a day of exploring.

Drive from Galway to Cork

Enjoy a scenic drive from Galway southwards towards Cork, traversing through Ireland's beautiful countryside.

Check-in Cork & Lunch

Check into your Cork accommodation.

Afterwards, grab lunch in Cork city or on your way to Kinsale.

Drive to Kinsale

A short and pleasant drive from Cork city to the picturesque harbour town of Kinsale.

Boat Tour of Kinsale Harbour and Bandon River

Enjoy a private family-friendly boat tour of Kinsale Harbour and the Bandon River.

Experience mackerel and lobster fishing, wildlife interaction, and sightseeing.

This private tour is a fantastic way to see Kinsale from the water. Perfect for your group of 4. Book this in advance as it's a private experience.

Gourmet Dinner in Kinsale

Kinsale is renowned as the 'Gourmet Capital of Ireland.

' Enjoy a superb dinner at one of its many award-winning restaurants.

Visit Blarney Castle & Stone

Travel to Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and gain the 'gift of the gab.

' Explore the beautiful castle grounds, including the Rock Close and Poison Garden.

Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially for kissing the stone. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds. It's about a 20-minute drive from Cork city.

Lunch at English Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the English Market, a historic covered market offering local produce, gourmet foods, and artisan crafts.

Grab lunch from one of the many food stalls.

A food lover's paradise. Excellent spot for a casual, authentic lunch experience. Look for upstairs restaurants like Farmgate Cafe.

Visit St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Explore the stunning French Gothic architecture of St.

Fin Barre's Cathedral. Marvel at its intricate carvings, stained glass, and beautiful interior.

A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. Small entrance fee applies.

Stroll Patrick Street & Shopping

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Patrick Street, Cork's main shopping thoroughfare.

Explore local boutiques or simply soak in the city's atmosphere.

Dinner in Cork City

Enjoy a final dinner in Cork, choosing from its diverse culinary scene.

Leisurely Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Cork before checking out of your hotel.

Drive from Cork to Dublin

Begin your drive from Cork directly to the capital city, Dublin.

Enjoy the last leg of your self-drive journey through the Irish countryside.

Hotel Check-in in Dublin

Arrive in Dublin and check into your accommodation for your four-night stay in the capital.

Once checked in, consider returning your rental car if you plan to use public transport and walk for the remainder of your Dublin stay.

Initial Dublin City Stroll

Take a leisurely walk to get acquainted with the area around your hotel.

Perhaps stroll along the River Liffey or explore a nearby park.

Welcome Dinner in Dublin

Enjoy your first dinner in Dublin, perhaps in the Temple Bar area or a more local neighbourhood.

Experience Glasnevin

Explore Ireland's National Cemetery, a beautifully restored Victorian cemetery and the final resting place of 1.

5 million people, including many historical figures.

Guided tours are highly recommended to learn about the fascinating stories and history. Check their website for tour times and booking.

National Museum Archaeology

Discover over two million artefacts at the National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology, the national repository for all archaeological objects found in Ireland.

Admission is free. Focus on highlights like the Irish gold collection and Viking artefacts.

Lunch in City Centre

Enjoy a traditional Irish lunch or choose from various international cuisines in Dublin's bustling city centre.

Grafton Street & Stephen's Green

Stroll down Grafton Street, Dublin's premier shopping district, enjoy street performers, and relax in St. Stephen's Green park.

Drinks on Foot: Pub Tour

Experience local brews that real Dubliners enjoy and learn Irish history as you sip, stepping inside four traditional Dublin pubs off the tourist trail.

This activity is suitable for those 18+. Meet your guide at a designated point.

Kilmainham Gaol Tour

Take a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history, housing many leaders of Irish rebellions.

Book tickets well in advance online as tours sell out quickly.

Temple Bar Walk

Stroll through the lively Temple Bar district, known for its cobblestone streets, traditional pubs, and cultural institutions.

Lunch in Temple Bar

Enjoy a pub lunch or choose from various restaurants in the vibrant Temple Bar area.

Guinness Storehouse Experience

Explore the history of Ireland's iconic stout at the Guinness Storehouse, culminating with a pint in the Gravity Bar offering panoramic city views.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and often save money.

Dinner in Dublin

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Dublin's many acclaimed restaurants or a cozy bistro.

LGBTQ+ History Walking Tour

Take a stroll through the streets of Dublin and explore some of the incredible figures of Ireland’s Queer History, from revolutionaries to civil rights agitators.

A unique historical and cultural perspective on Dublin. Check tour specific meeting point.

Trinity College Walk

Walk through the historic grounds of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland's oldest university.

Admire its stunning architecture.

Consider visiting the Book of Kells exhibition if time and interest allow (requires separate booking and often long queues).

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final memorable lunch in Dublin, perhaps near Trinity College or in a charming cafe.

Car Rental Return

Return your rental car to the designated drop-off location in Dublin, likely at Dublin Airport or a city centre branch.

Ensure you have enough fuel and are aware of the return procedure. Consider returning at the airport if your flight is the next day to simplify logistics.

Last Minute Souvenirs

Pick up any final Irish souvenirs or gifts from local shops.

Farewell Dinner

Savour your last evening in Ireland with a special farewell dinner.